False Base Station Detection via Secret Paging in RRC Inactive

The patent implements periodic authenticity verification by monitoring for secret paging messages at predetermined time intervals rather than continuous monitoring. The UE checks for the presence of secret paging messages configured by the network at specific DRX cycles, which provides periodic security verification while allowing the UE to enter low-power sleep modes between verification intervals, thus significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring.

The patent employs self-service mechanisms where the UE autonomously verifies base station authenticity by checking for secret paging messages without requiring continuous network intervention. The UE independently monitors for authenticity indicators and can disconnect from false base stations autonomously, reducing the need for constant network-managed verification and lowering overall system energy consumption.

The patent makes the authenticity verification mechanism universal by integrating it into the existing RRC Inactive state workflow. The secret paging message mechanism serves multiple functions: it verifies base station authenticity, provides security coverage for inactive UEs, and can be configured by the network based on threat levels. This multi-functional approach expands security coverage without requiring entirely new complex verification systems.

The patent introduces secret paging messages as an intermediary mechanism between the network and UE for authenticity verification. Instead of complex direct verification protocols, the network sends encrypted paging messages containing authenticity indicators to the UE during inactive state. This intermediary approach simplifies the verification process for the UE while providing robust security coverage, as the UE only needs to check for the presence and validity of these paging messages.

The patent implements periodic transmission of secret paging messages at configured intervals rather than continuous or frequent transmission. The network determines appropriate transmission timing based on DRX cycles and security risk assessment, sending secret paging messages only when necessary to maintain detection accuracy. This periodic approach ensures the UE can verify authenticity at appropriate intervals while minimizing unnecessary network overhead compared to frequent or continuous messaging.

The patent dynamically adjusts messaging parameters based on security risk levels and network conditions. The network can modify the frequency and timing of secret paging message transmissions based on detected threat levels, cell characteristics, and UE behavior patterns. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain high detection accuracy in high-risk scenarios while reducing network overhead in low-risk situations, optimizing the balance between security and resource consumption.